“Quietly trust yourself to Christ your Lord, and if anybody asks why you believe as you do, be ready to tell him, and do it in a gentle and respectful way.” 1 Peter 3:15 TLB

News of the day can be depressing. Praying for our leaders seems hopeless. Any sense of “normal” is surely gone forever. All creation yearns for peace and stability.

Today I was reminded—yes, convicted—of my role and responsibility as a Child of God in challenging times.

It is, after all, my personal choice. Do I join in the discussion, the tearing down of a person? Or, do I instead pray and trust God to help me see others, including our president, as His creation? Teach me, Father, to pray for his soul, for his family, and his responsibilities, just as I would have others pray for me.

Here are a few choices I have made for myself as the political atmosphere continues to heat up.

#1. I can seriously ask God for forgiveness for my attitude, and my lack of faith in His leading. “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7 Click here to read all of 1 Peter 5.

#2. I can obey God as I pray for the current and future presidents and all those in authority. “ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people; for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” 1 Timothy 2:1-2

#3. I can remember it is God Who puts people in power. Romans 13:1 and 1 Peter 2:13, 15. Paul and Peter were not excusing wrong behavior. They were being persecuted, yet they were honoring God with their obedience.

#4. I can be honest with God. To obey Him as above does not mean I understand or even like what happens. I can tell God I don’t get it, I’m unhappy, confused, and hurting.

#5 I can pray for wisdom and a softened heart! “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” James 1:5

#6 I can be thankful in all things! I am reminded that our mission as Christians is not to change the nation through political reform, but to change hearts through the Word of God.

Thank you for praying for me and for each other. I know God’s continual tugging at my heart is in answer to the faithful, loving prayers of others. Beloved, now more than ever, we need each other.

Please let me know how I can pray for you. And thanks for taking the time to comment below.

Hugs,

Susie